Frankfurt 2009: Hyundai Elantra Hybrid

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What is it?The Elantra isn't the world's most exciting car, but it's what under this one's bonnet that's making the news here.

It's a hybrid car that's powered by Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) and Lithium-Ion-Polymer batteries, and is the first time we've seen one in Europe.

The 113bhp 1.6-litre petrol-engine is augmented by a 19bhp electric motor, for a combined output of 132bhp.

What makes it different?Most hybrids use lithium-ion batteries, but the Elantra is the first car to use lithium-ion-polymer batteries, which Hyundai claims are more robust, cheaper to make and have a longer life.

The car comes with a CVT gearbox, an engine start-stop system and indicators to help promote a more economical driving style.

It has CO2 emissions of 94g/km and is capable of 64mpg.

The car is on sale in Korea and the company is looking at other markets where an adequate LPG infrastructure exists.

Does Hyundai think the UK has an adequate LPG infrastructure?

Hyundai says it is looking to sell or lease the Elantra LPI Hybrid to fleets who operate in LPG pump-rich areas (such as London) or have their own supplies of LPG (such as local authorities, gas companies etc). Hyundai isnt yet sure if it is viable to sell the car direct to the public.